Grants are the holy grail of small-business money: you don't pay them back. The catch is that they're competitive, limited, and slow — and there's no single list of every program. Here's how Maine owners, from Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, Auburn, Biddeford and Augusta, actually find grant money.
Where to find grants in Maine
- State economic development — Maine's economic-development office and Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) list state-funded grants and incentives.
- City & county programs — many Maine cities run local grants for storefront improvement, hiring, or specific neighborhoods.
- Private & corporate grants — national programs (from banks, card networks and brands) are open to Maine businesses year-round.
- Federal resources — Grants.gov and the SBA point to programs you may qualify for.
Heads-up: Maine runs state and local programs alongside national private grants, with availability that changes throughout the year. Always confirm current eligibility, funding status and deadlines directly with each program — grant details change frequently.
Grants vs. funding — the honest trade-off
A grant is free money, but you might wait months and still not win one. A business loan or line of credit costs money but funds in days and is available to far more businesses. Many owners do both: apply for grants for the long game, and use funding to grow now.
| Grants | |
|---|---|
| Repayment | None — it's free money |
| Speed | Slow — weeks to months |
| Odds | Competitive & limited |
| Best for | Patient, well-qualified applicants |
Need capital now instead? See business loans in Maine. Explore more in our small business grants guide, grants by state, and grants for startups, or the full grants directory.
Frequently asked questions
Are there grants in Maine?
Yes — state, city/county, and national private grants. Availability and deadlines change often, so verify each program's current terms.
Do grants have to be repaid?
No — a true grant isn't repaid, which is why they're competitive and slow. Loans fund faster if you need cash now.
Can I do both?
Yes — pursue grants for the long game and use funding to grow in the meantime.